'I've Got You Under My Skin' was originally written by Cole Porter in 1936 and has since become a jazz standard, famously performed by various artists. Artie Shaw and His Orchestra recorded the song in 1941, during the peak of the big band era. This version is notable for its lush orchestration and Shaw's clarinet work, which infused the song with a distinctively smooth and sophisticated sound. The song's popularity was further enhanced by its inclusion in the repertoire of many artists, allowing it to transcend its initial release and become a staple in jazz and popular music.
Lyrically, 'I've Got You Under My Skin' delves into themes of obsession and vulnerability in love. The narrator expresses a deep emotional entanglement, suggesting that their feelings for their partner are so strong that they are almost inescapable. Lines such as "I've tried so not to give in" illustrate the struggle of resisting overwhelming affection, while "You got me under your skin" poignantly conveys the idea of being consumed by love. The lyrics encapsulate a universal experience of romance, where the heart's desires can lead to both joy and turmoil.
The critical reception of Shaw's rendition of 'I've Got You Under My Skin' was overwhelmingly positive, and it has maintained a significant cultural legacy over the decades. The song became emblematic of the swing era and is often associated with the romantic complexities of the time. It has been covered by a multitude of artists, most famously by Frank Sinatra, whose 1956 version brought the song into the realm of pop music and introduced it to a new generation. Shaw's interpretation, with its intricate arrangement and vibrant energy, remains a celebrated example of big band jazz, influencing countless musicians and enriching the song's legacy as a timeless classic.